William G. “Bill” Bailey, of Bradenton and formerly of Longboat Key, died Friday, May 11. He was 92.

Mr. Bailey was a veteran of the Air Force and was a pilot in World War II. He attended Trenton State College and received a master’s degree from the University of Georgia. He retired after a 35-year career as a high school and junior college professor of chemistry.

Mr. Bailey was named “Citizen of the Year” by the Kiwanis Club of Sarasota Keys (now the Kiwanis Club of Longboat Key) in 1997. He will be remembered for his love of travel, good food and wine. He was a regular contributor to the Longboat Observer’s “Dining Out” column when he lived on Longboat Key and in later years wrote food-themed columns for the Freedom Village newsletter.

He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Jean; daughter, Wendy Collins; and one granddaughter.

A celebration of his life will be held at a later date. Donations may be made to Tidewell Hospice Bradenton, 2504 34th Ave. W., Bradenton, Fla., 34205, or the Veterans of Foreign Wars, 406 W. 34th St., Kansas City, Mo., 64111.

 

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